Pep Guardiola has stated that a Manchester City player will no longer feature under his management after their costly error in the defeat to Aston Villa. Guardiola remarked, “If I keep playing him, we might risk relegation. He will not start for Manchester City again as long as I am the manager—unless I’m sacked.

Manchester City’s poor form persisted as they fell to a 2-1 defeat against Aston Villa, marking their ninth loss in 12 games. The Premier League champions delivered another subpar performance, struggling to find consistency and cohesion as they slipped further down the table.

The match began ominously for City, as Villa nearly scored in the opening minute. Things worsened when John Stones’ early mistake gifted the home side their first goal. Stones was later substituted at halftime due to injury, compounding City’s difficulties.

Former City academy player Morgan Rogers added to Villa’s tally in the second half with a composed finish, securing the victory. Although Phil Foden scored a consolation goal in injury time, it was too little, too late for Pep Guardiola’s side, who now sit sixth in the standings.

City’s display was riddled with errors and disorganization. Goalkeeper Ortega (7) was one of the few bright spots, making key saves to keep the scoreline respectable. However, the defensive line struggled throughout, with Lewis (4) unable to handle Villa’s attacks and Stones (4) having a particularly poor outing before his injury. Akanji (4) and Gvardiol (4) also failed to provide the defensive stability needed.

In midfield, Kovacic (5) made some effort to bridge defense and attack, but Gundogan (4) and Silva (4) offered little creativity or influence. Foden (5) managed a late goal but was otherwise ineffective, while Haaland (5) continued to be isolated and without adequate service.

Jack Grealish (6) was one of the few players who showed some attacking intent, though his efforts were not enough to change the outcome. Substitutes Walker (5), Savinho (6), and Doku failed to make a significant impact.

As City’s slump deepens, Guardiola faces the challenge of reinvigorating a team plagued by underperformance. With several players struggling and cohesion lacking, the road to recovery appears increasingly steep for the reigning champions.